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Dementia Friendly

Dementia Friendly Tinley Park

Dementia Friendly Tinley Park is an initiative through which local government entities, businesses, health care providers, first responders, and individuals strive to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Through this program, we work to create a more attentive, caring, and supportive community.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with dementia or is showing signs of memory loss or cognitive changes, the library is here to help. We offer access to resources, reading materials, caregiver activity kits, educational programming, and a supportive environment to connect, learn, and thrive.

Memory Care Collection

This collection is located in the adult nonfiction section on the first floor along the north wall. It contains:

Books, DVDs, and resources on caregiving and understanding and coping with dementia
Simplified large print fiction and nonfiction
Adult picture books
Sing-along DVDs
Activity kits, which offer a fun way for family and friends to engage
- Each themed kit contains a game, puzzle, craft, and book that will spark memory, conversation, and creative expression. Activity kits were generously funded through a grant from AgeOptions.

Educational Programs

The library offers programs on a range of topics related to caregiving, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia. We partner with organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association, AgeOptions, and Pathlights to bring in knowledgeable and professional speakers. Programs cover topics such as brain health, recognizing the warning signs of dementia, understanding the disease, financial and legal issues, care options, and support services.

Memory Café

senior couples dancing and having a good time.

Our Memory Cafe is a social gathering for anyone experiencing early-stage dementia, mild memory loss or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to attend with a family member, friend, or care partner. Attendees enjoy refreshments, music, crafts, and a variety of activities.

It is held on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 10:30–11:30 am.

Visit our event calendar to sign up for the next session and other upcoming dementia-friendly events.

Contact Pam Zukoski for more information at 708.532.0160, x6.

Stitch Club Memory Care Project

The Library’s Stitch Club members create and donate lap mats, fidget quilts, and twiddle muffs to be distributed to local care facilities and community members. Inquire at the Checkout Desk to pick up a handmade item for your loved one today.

Aging Services Network Resources

Caregiving and navigating dementia can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining, but help is available through Aging Services Network partners. Information displays can be found in the first-floor Meeting Room, in the Memory Care Collection, and online:

Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 helpline at 800.272.3900 for immediate assistance.